Information
The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India.
It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
The structure is widely considered one of the greatest architectural achievements in human history.
It serves as the crown jewel of Muslim art and is a globally admired masterpiece of world heritage.
The main mausoleum is constructed of white marble that reflects changing colors according to the sun and moon.
Its design incorporates elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman, and Indian architectural styles.
The complex is set in a massive 17-hectare garden that follows the charbagh (four-square) layout.
Construction took approximately 20 years to complete, involving thousands of artisans and craftsmen.
The central dome, often called the "onion dome," reaches a height of nearly 73 meters.
Four slender minarets frame the tomb, leaning slightly outward to prevent damage to the main structure in the event of an earthquake.
The interior walls are adorned with intricate pietra dura, a decorative technique using inlaid semi-precious stones.
Calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran decorate many parts of the exterior and entrance archways.
In 1983, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for being a jewel of Muslim art in India.
It attracts millions of visitors annually, standing as a timeless symbol of love and architectural perfection.
The Taj Mahal remains one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.